China's Only Tidal Town, the ‘One-Line Tide’ is Revered as a ‘World Wonder’ – Have You Visited?
Located on the northern bank of the Qiantang River and serving as a county-level city in Zhejiang Province, Haining's name dates back to the period of the Southern Han Dynasty as Haining County. Its name originated from 'Hai Ning,' meaning 'peaceful sea and reeds,' due to the tidal surges of the Qiantang River. Everyone has likely heard or experienced the Qiantang River tides. The most famous Qiantang tide is the 'Haining Tide,' and the 'One-Line Tide' at Haining Salt Gentry is the most renowned natural wonder in the world.
When it comes to Haining Salt Gentry, it might be unfamiliar to many. The history of Salt Gentry is very long, dating back to the Western Han Dynasty, and now it has a history of 2000 years. It was formerly known as 'Haining' and has been the site of Haining County's administration since the Tang Dynasty. The ancient town is full of historical relics. It is said that Emperor Qianlong visited it four times during his four voyages down the Qiantang River, which has cast a legendary color on this ancient town.
The most famous sight in Salt Gentry is the 'Haining Salt Gentry Viewing Tide Scenic Area.' Salt Gentry is the only tide town in China, and its 'One-Line Tide' enjoys fame throughout the country. It is the best viewing spot for the Qiantang River tides. The Qiantang River tides are not only on August 18th, but there are two tides every day, just the tide on August 18th is larger.
The Haining Tide is known as 'a wonder of the world.' The history of viewing tides dates back to the Han and Wei dynasties, was particularly prosperous during the Tang and Song dynasties, and this 2000-year-old viewing tide tradition has become an important local custom. Even today, it is still popular and attracts many domestic and foreign tourists to visit.
The ticket price for the Haining Salt Gentry Viewing Tide Scenic Area is 30 yuan per person. The transportation to here is also relatively convenient. It is about 40 minutes by car from Hangzhou, and about 30 minutes by car from Haining. Due to the different tides every day, it is recommended to check the tide arrival time in advance, and arrive 30 minutes early to find a good viewing spot.
There are many viewing spots in Salt Gentry Viewing Park, with 2 towers and 6 viewing platforms. Fences are set up on the bank for safety. When the tide comes, you must stay at least 1 meter away from the fence.
The first time I came to Salt Gentry Viewing Tide, my heart was very excited. I arrived early in the park. Perhaps because of the weather, there weren't many people watching the tide.
When I came to a small pavilion on the bank, there was a golden inscription hanging in the pavilion: 'Entering like a tide.' These four characters were written by Sun Yat-sen for the Haining Second Vocational School for Commercial Affairs. They are now the spirit of Haining, hoping that the Haining people can be like the Qiantang River tide—ten thousand horses galloping forward, and bravely going straight.
Not long after, I heard the sound of the tide rumbling in the distance. Looking out, I saw a 'white line' appearing on the gray-blue river surface, moving forward quickly like ten thousand horses. At this time, my heart was even more excited, and I also felt the wonder of nature. It deserved to be 'a wonder of the world.'
Just as I was about to say that, the One-Line Tide appeared in front of me. At this time, the entire river surface seemed to boil, and one wave after another rushed forward. Unfortunately, the tide was not very high on the day we came, and it is said that when the tide is high, it moves forward like a wall. If it's under the blue sky and white clouds, it would be even more beautiful.
The tide didn't disappear for long before continuing to flow downstream. The river water behind it was constantly boiling and churning, just like my heart, which couldn't calm down for a long time.
Do you have any experience visiting or hearing about Haining's One-Line Tide at Salt Gentry? What are your impressions of this One-Line Tide landscape? Welcome to leave a comment.
